How Do Sump Pumps Work?

Close up of a sump pump installed in a home basement for domestic plumbing use

Are you worried about basement flooding the next time there’s a storm? Then you need to know about sump pumps.

These powerful systems can give you peace of mind the next time there’s heavy rainfall. They can make the difference between a dry or flooded home. But what, exactly, is a sump pump? And how does a sump pump work in a basement or elsewhere?

Our team answers these questions and more below.

What Is a Sump Pump?

“Sumps” are low spaces where water accumulates. In homes, we can think of a basement or crawlspace as a “sump”, because it’s the lowest spot in the property.

A sump pump, then, is a mechanism used to remove standing water from the basement or crawlspace. The goal is to prevent flooding and protect the property’s foundation from water damage.

Sump pumps are built into a hole, or space, in your basement. When water levels rise, the pump activates and drains the water away from your home. There are various types of sump pumps, but the most common include battery backup and water powered pumps.

How Do Battery Backup Sump Pumps Work?

Sometimes, storms cause power outages. However, a battery backup sump pump includes a float switch. So, even if a storm knocks out your power, the pump still works. It just switches from using electricity to the battery backup.

How Do Water Powered Sump Pumps Work?

A water powered sump pump actually uses water pressure to pump excess water away. It’s handy because there’s no battery or power supply. The downside is the risk of higher water bills due to increased water usage.

Due to IL codes and regulations, water pumps are uncommon in the state. They should not be the primary sump pump for any home.

Sump Pump Benefits

There are many benefits to installing a sump pump in your home.

  • Sump pumps help to prevent structural damage from pooling or standing water.
  • If there’s a flood, sump pump can protect your valuables from water damage.
  • A sump pump can help to reduce mold and dampness, which improves air quality.
  • Heavy rainfall is increasingly common across Illinois, so a sump pump could boost your home’s value.

Do You Need a Sump Pump?

Ultimately, it depends on your property. Here are signs you will benefit from a sump.

  • You use your basement to store valuables and other property.
  • Your basement has flooded before.
  • You live in an older property with possible mold or mildew problems.
  • Your home is in an area prone to storms and heavy rainfall.

Even if you don’t have a basement or need a sump pump, you might need flood protection. Our plumbers are happy to inspect your property and recommend what type of flood protection works best.

Sump Pump Repair and Installation in Elgin, IL

Flooding or high water levels can cause severe property damage. That’s why you probably need a sump pump – and you definitely need to service it regularly!

Don’t put your home’s foundation at risk. Call Fox Valley Plumbing for a sump pump installation or repair today.

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How Long Does a Water Heater Last?

Graphic of a new hot water heater tank fitted and installed against gray background

Your water heater should be durable enough to last many years. However, even high-quality water heaters break down eventually. But how long does a hot water heater last, and how can you maximize its lifespan? Let’s take a look.

How Long Should a Water Heater Last?

How long does a gas water heater last? According to Keep Warm Illinois, the average hot water tank lasts around 12 years. While this is impressive, it does mean you’ll probably need to replace your water heater every decade or so.

Why do water heaters fail? It’s typically due to rust and corrosion. Even if you replace the components regularly, the tank will eventually rust through.

How Long Does a Tankless Water Heater Last?

A tankless water heater can last slightly longer – anywhere from 10 to 20 years. With good maintenance, you can extend this as long as possible. We’ll cover maintenance tips below.

Signs of a Failing Water Heater

How do you know if your heater needs replacing? Look out for these tell-tale signs of a failing water heater or component parts.

  • Low water pressure
  • Discolored water
  • Insufficient hot water
  • Frequent strange noises e.g. hissing, banging
  • Leaks around the tank

The good news is that these signs don’t always mean the whole heater needs replacing! Often, we can replace or repair a component without changing the whole tank.

The sooner you identify water heater failure, the easier it is to fix the problem. So, if you spot any of these signs, contact Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing for water heater repair.

Tips to Prolong Your Water Heater’s Lifespan

Although your tank will need replacing eventually, there are various ways you can extend its lifespan. Here’s how to improve your tank’s life expectancy.

  • Flush and drain the tank at least once a year. This removes sediment buildup and helps to protect the components.
  • Replace your anode rod every few years. This rod helps to prevent corrosion within the tank.
  • Inspect the tank regularly. If you have any concerns, schedule a visit from our plumbing team.
  • Consider an expansion tank. Expansion tanks help to ease some of the pressure on the main tank. This could prolong the life of your water heater.
  • Buy water softener. Using a water softener can help reduce mineral deposit buildup within the tank.

It’s crucial that you perform routine maintenance on your water heater. And if you spot any signs of leaking or corrosion, call our team so we can remedy the problem before they become urgent.

Remember, malfunctioning water heaters can lead to property damage and flooding – and expensive emergency repairs!

Replace or Repair Your Water Heater in Elgin, IL

Do you need a water heater repair or replacement? Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing can assist. Our experienced plumbers can service, repair, or replace your water heater with minimal fuss. And we’ll work around your schedule – after all, we’re here to help!

Contact us now to discuss a water heater repair or replacement in Illinois.

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Say Goodbye to Sediment: How to Drain a Water Heater

Plumber crouching to drain a hot water heater in property

Let’s be honest: do you take your hot water supply for granted? Don’t worry if the answer’s yes – we all do!

To keep your home water supply running smoothly, though, you’ll need to drain the water heater tank regularly. And if you’re feeling confident, it’s something you can attempt to do yourself. So, here’s how to go about draining the tank, and when to call a plumber.

Do You Need to Drain a Water Heater?

Yes. Over time, sediment builds in the water tank. This build-up causes corrosion, and it could shorten your tank’s lifespan. It could also cause leaks, clogs, and eventually lead to no hot water.

How Often Should You Drain a Water Heater?

The general consensus is that water heaters should be drained at least once a year. However, if you’re in an area with “hard” water, consider draining the tank every six months.

How Long Does it Take to Drain a Water Heater?

Want to know how to drain a hot water heater quickly? The good news is that the process is quick! The whole job can be completed in under 60 minutes.

How to Drain Your Water Heater

Are you ready to drain your water heater? Here’s what to do.

  • Shut off the power and water supply. Otherwise, you risk flooding and damaging heating elements. Check your owner’s manual(s) for instructions for how to do this.
  • Attach a garden hose to the drain valve: Any sturdy garden hose will do. Run the other end to a floor drain or outside. Make sure the hose stays lower than the drain valve so water runs in the right direction.
  • Run a hot water tap: To ensure your system flushes completely (and quickly), it’s good to release some pressure first. Run a hot water tap near your heater, or a tap on the upper floor of your home.
  • Open the drain valve: With the hose attached, open the drain valve to start draining.
  • Flush out remaining sediment: Once the tank is empty, flush out remaining sediment by turning the cold water on. Once the water runs clear, turn the cold water off for now.
  • Close your drain valve: Remove the hose and close the drain valve again.
  • Turn the water back on and fill the tank. Wait until the tank is full before turning the power back on. You will soon have hot water again!

How to Drain a Water Heater: Safety Tips

Keep you and your family safe when there’s water flowing, follow these four safety tips.

  1. The tank water could be very hot. Let the water cool down before you drain it! You can run your hot water taps to speed up this process.
  2. Consider wearing goggles and gloves for extra heat protection.
  3. Make sure you use either a floor drain or bucket when draining the water. Or, let the water flow outside from the hose. Insufficient space for draining can cause flooding.
  4. Always check for leaks after completing the water heater drainage. Make sure everything is securely turned back off. Even a small leak can cause flooding eventually!

When to Call a Plumber

Just because you can drain a gas water heater by yourself doesn’t mean you should! If you’re not comfortable draining your own water heater tank, don’t attempt it. Instead, simply call Fox Valley Backflow & Plumbing.

We’ll drain your water heater quickly and perform any other residential plumbing services you require. No job is too small for our team!

Call now at (847) 624-3872 to schedule a home visit for water heater drainage.

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